Diego Simeone insists that he has “no doubt” about the ability of Javi Galan, after the struggles of Atletico Madrid Full-back in recent weeks.
Galan struggled against Rodrygo during the 2-1 defeat of Atletico against Real Madrid in the opening leg of their Champions League Last-16 draw.
The 30-year-old was also not convincing against Lamine Yamal from Barcelona when the parties played an entertaining 4-4 draw in their Copa del Rey Semi-final first stage.
But Simeone, who has generally preferred Galan to rode back to the left this season, jumped to the defense of his player.
“Javi gives everything, I have no doubt,” said Simeone reporters prior to the Liga trip on Sunday to get Getafe. “We get the best out of him and he helps us a lot. We need the best version of him.
“He recently suffered from Rodrygo, as most left backs suffer. He suffered from Lamine, yes, as most full-backs suffer. We know his condition, his dedication and we need him.
“I am considering what I am doing. Javi gets more minutes because it is good for us as a team. We already know Reinildo's defensive strengths, we used it in a number of short spells.”
Atletico, who follows Laliga leaders Barca on one point, will want to return to the top with victory over Getafe – a team that they have already defeated twice this season.
“It is clear that these will be different games than the one we have played in the Metropolitano; they have an important force at home,” Simeone added.
“They have improved a lot in the attack. They have always checked their intensity with their coach. We have to take the game where we can hurt them.”
❝Tafe have an important force at home. They have improved a lot in the attack and have always managed the intensity that their coach proposes. I imagine a heavy match for.
– Simeone pic.twitter.com/qwkmr6couz
– Atlético de Madrid (@atleti Glish) 8 March 2025
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